Congratulations, Fort Worth mama! You’ve heard of your friends booking an in-home newborn session, but what are these sessions really like? At Nikki Caviness Photography, in-home newborn sessions are my specialty. If you’ve ended up here, I’m so proud of you because I know that you’ve recognized the importance of capturing these early days with your brand new baby.

There are lots of options when it comes to photographing your newborn. Studio. Posed. In-home. Lifestyle. And a mix of all of those options.

I know you have all the questions….

Does my home have to be Pinterest-worthy?

But I just had a baby and don’t feel pretty….

Do you bring any props?

But my baby is nursing all.the.time. How are we going to get any photos done?

I’m going to walk you through exactly what an in-home newborn lifestyle session is like so you know what to expect!

In-home sessions – I don’t love my home

First of all, you don’t have to have the perfect home. I promise you. I have shot an entire session on the landing of a client’s staircase before. What you do need is windows so natural light can enter your home.

Before your session, I’ll have you send me pictures of the different rooms in your home. From there, we will come up with a plan on what rooms we will shoot in based on the amount of natural light. On session day, I’ll have you turn off all lights and open the blinds before I get there and then you’ll take me on a tour of your home. I’ve also been known to rearrange furniture and decor! I do this so you can be in the best light and so there aren’t distracting elements in your images.

When are in-home newborn sessions

Mama, I know you’ve just had a baby and don’t feel your best. That’s one of the reasons I recommend photographing your newborn after they are two weeks old. Bringing a new baby home is life changing! Baby needs a second to get acclimated. You need some time to heal. Anywhere between 3 and 6 weeks is my ideal time to photograph you and your newborn.

I will also encourage you to choose something you feel beautiful and comfortable in! Whether that’s a flowy maxi dress or your comfiest pair of jeans with a cozy sweater, I want you to feel like yourself (here are some ideas on what to wear!). Also, consider having someone come to your home to do your makeup. You just had a baby – you deserve to be pampered! A few local makeup artist that you should check out are Kari Shuler, Madison King, and Adina Wright.

What will the images be like

In my vision for newborn and family photography, mama is beautiful, multi-faceted, and the center of the home. I will gently direct you to make sure you are in the most flattering positions and in the most beautiful light. I also have several posing tips that you can view on my Instagram bubbles!

My goal with in-home newborn photography is to be as authentic as possible. I do not bring any props with me, and do not request that you have anything special for the baby except for a neutral swaddle.

Lastly, I know that newborns are unpredictable – I’ve had two of my own! My newborn sessions are slow, relaxed, and will go with the flow of what baby needs. If baby is hungry and needs to eat, no problem! We can take a break! I’m not in a rush – my newborn sessions are typically around an hour and a half to allow for break times and a slower pace.

Want to learn more about my in-home newborn lifestyle sessions? Reach out to me here so we can set up a call to chat!